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The historic Coca-Cola Bottling Plant located at South Poplar Street (across from the Old Salem Visitors Center) is being reimagined as a vibrant multi-use space called Salem Bottleworks.
This development ensures the preservation of the landmark by creating a new gathering space featuring a bakery, restaurants, and residential space. The best part? All the money going in and out of the project stays local.
Let’s dive into the exciting future of this historic building!
Updated November 2025
The Historical Significance of the Coca-Cola Building
Timeline to Date:
- Built in 1929, this building was the first bottling plant designed by Coca-Cola architects
- After ceasing operations in 1980, the plant was acquired by Old Salem and primarily used for storage
- In April 2022, local entrepreneur and head of Salem Bottling LLC Jared Rogers bought the building
- In February 2023, Rogers took possession of the building
- In November 2023, the plant was designated a historical landmark
Why does this matter? As a historic site, Salem Bottling LLC could get an annual property tax deferral of up to 50%. The company would need to preserve as much historical architecture as possible to receive this deferral.
Fun Fact: Back in the 1950s, the king-sized Coca-Cola bottle was 10 oz and the family size was 24 oz.
The Multi-Use Space
Bobby Boy’s Second Location
Bobby Boy Bakeshop, a local bakery in town, is popular enough that it usually sells out of all its baked goods. With a second location and commercial kitchen at Salem Bottleworks taking up most of the first floor, the bakery can now meet the demand and expand its offerings. The new location opened in April 2025.
- The Details: Bobby Boy Bakeshop at Salem Bottleworks offers indoor and outdoor seating options. The outdoor area is climate-controlled with fans for the summer and heaters for the winter, ensuring comfort all year round. An all-glass chocolatier section is used for the creation of Bobby Boy’s fancy pastries.
Restaurant Spaces
Salem Bottleworks will house three restaurants owned by Bobby Boy Bakeshop.
- Grandpa Joe’s Slaberia, a pizzeria with ample seating and a mezzanine level, opened in August 2025
- Noodle Ju’b, a noodle counter, will open in late 2025/early 2026
- An unnamed fine-dining restaurant with a large private dining area is expected to open in early 2026
Residential Spaces
- Salem Bottleworks will also offer residential options, including a four-bedroom Airbnb and three studio apartments expected in late 2026.
Market Space
- A small market space will cater to everyday needs, offering various local products and essentials. Expected to open in late 2025.
Event Space
- A portion of the upstairs space will be turned into an event space. The main area will accommodate up to 125 people with an additional 46 people on the balcony. The space’s versatility will allow it to be used for various events, from private parties to corporate events. Expected in late 2026.
Additional Features and Community Impact
- Employment: The development is expected to employ over 150 once fully operational, contributing significantly to the local economy.
- Local Focus: All the restaurants will be locally owned, ensuring the spaces reflect the character and creativity of the Winston-Salem community.
- Parking: The property includes 1.4 acres dedicated to parking.
- Food Trucks: The courtyard area has the capacity to host two food trucks.
